Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety condition which can develop for those who experience combat or go through almost any other traumatic event, such as physical or sexual assault, or witnessing the injury or death of another person. The symptoms of PTSD can include depression, panic, irritability, nightmares, exaggerated startle response, isolation, guilt and emotional emptiness.

The U.S. Department of Veterans ffairs (V..) does officially recognize PTSD as a disability that can cause impairment in both social and occupational functioning. Veterans diagnosed with PTSD may be eligible for the following benefits/services.

-DISBILITY COMPENSTION: Disability compensation benefits are payable when the veteran is diagnosed with the disorder, and it can be linked through appropriate documentation to military service. There must be evidence of the “stressor” that caused the PTSD. stressor can be assumed for veterans who received the Combat Infantryman Badge or the Combat Medic Badge. The stressor is also assumed for those who received the Purple Heart or any award for valor. Veterans who do not have proof of combat service must document their stressor(s) in other ways. PTSD can be rated from 10% to 100% disabling, and disability payments would be made accordingly.

-V COUNSELING ND MEDICL CRE: The V offers individual or group counseling for PTSD at Vet Centers. Wisconsin Vet Centers are located in Milwaukee or Madison. They specialize in a community-based approach in a relaxed, comfortable manner that includes veterans’ families. Some outlying areas have contract providers who provide counseling through Vet Center funding. Other veterans may receive PTSD care through V Medical Centers or clinics. Intensive inpatient therapy is available when necessary.

Veterans who are experiencing symptoms which may be PTSD are encouraged to contact their County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for further information regarding treatment and/or filing a claim. Do not procrastinate. Every month that goes by is a month of benefits that may be lost! You can locate your CVSO under the county government phone listings or through the website of the CVSO ssociation of Wisconsin at www.wicvso.org.

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WASHINGTON - This week the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) took a key step in its digital modernization effort by revamping its website accessed by 10 million customers per month who use VA's tools and content online.